Abstract

This article seeks to explore the practical, cultural and educational effects of information and communication technology support and the computer mediated
communication of doctoral candidates from cross-cultural backgrounds in an
asynchronous online learning environment. The history of educational development
is replete with technology-based projects that failed because of high
operating costs, problems of adaptation to local conditions, lack of skilled
personnel to operate the technologies, and lack of effectiveness. The challenge has
been how to facilitate learning contexts that are productive for the individual
learner. This investigation provided insights for the managers of the Norwegian
Council for Higher Education's Programme for Development Research and
Education (NUFU) Productive Learning Culture project on the challenges of such
a project. Four lessons from this research emerged on cross-cultural learning
communities, and have bearing on technology, project management, online
learning communities, and cross-cultural issues.